Alkermes :: Alkermes (n.) A compound cordial, in the form of a confection, deriving its name from the kermes insect, its principal ingredient..
Kermes :: Kermes (n.) The dried bodies of the females of a scale insect (Coccus ilicis), allied to the cochineal insect, and found on several species of oak near the Mediterranean. They are round, about the size of a pea, contain coloring matter analogous to carmine, and are used in dyeing. They were anciently thought to be of a vegetable nature, and were used in medicine..